Page 97 of Heart Taker

“I’ll go with you because I’d like to meet your dad, but let’s not say anything. I don’t want to put them in a position to have to deny it later.”

“So, what? We say you happened to be in the area and wanted to stop by?”

“Something like that. I’ve got errands to run anyway. I’ll think of an excuse.”

“All right. But my father and brother know me. I only bring friends like Finn to meet them. They’re going to know something’s up.”

“Speaking of Finn, have you heard from him yet?”

“Nope. I texted him yesterday and again this morning,” I replied. “No response.”

“That worries me.”

“I’m going to give him a call before we take off.”

“Sounds good,” Damien replied and reached for my empty plate.

“Leave that, I’ll clean up.”

“Nope, it’s my turn. House rules,” Damien responded and gave me a resounding kiss. “Go call Finn.”

I headed off to the bedroom and grabbed my phone off the nightstand. I was relieved to see there was finally a message from my friend.

Finn: She got through surgery okay and is back home. Call me?

I tapped on Finn’s contact info and waited anxiously for him to answer.

“Hey, Si.”

“How’s your mom?”

“She’s doing all right. The surgery went without a hitch, and they released her this morning. But it’ll take a week or two to get the biopsy results. We were hoping it would be sooner.”

“Waiting’s the worst part.”

“It is.” He sighed. “Anyway, I’m heading back to Vermont tomorrow morning. My parents insist on it. I feel guilty but right now, there’s nothing else I can do for her. And, honestly, I’d rather be busy at practice than sitting at home driving everyone nuts with my nervous mouth.”

I chuckled. “I’m sure they don’t feel that way. But busy is always good. How’re you doing?”

“I’m still… upset. But I’m hoping for the best. That’s all I can do, right?”

“It is. Try to stay positive. And make sure your family keeps on those doctors. Don’t hesitate to push if you don’t get answers soon. Trust me on this. You’ve gotta advocate for her.”

“I will,” Finn replied. “What are you up to? How was camp on Friday? Did I miss much? Did Damien ride your ass hard?”

Yes, yes he fucking did…

Tell him about Damien.

“You didn’t miss anything. Ethan called in sick, so Damien cancelled the camp.”

“You’re calling him Damien again. What happened to Coach Banning?”

“Well, see?—”

“What’s going on, Silas? And don’t tell me nothing. I’ve known you long enough to know something was up on the ride to the airport Friday. Your voice sounds different. Are you okay?”

“More than okay,” I blurted out. “There is something important, but you need to promise me you won’t say anything to anyone. Promise.”

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